E-Waste
Cell phones, computers, tablets and other electronics have become a ubiquitous part of our lives. In many households, you can find multiple electronic devices. After a while, these devices become outdated. Have you ever wondered what happens to them once we no longer need them?
Watch the report about E-Waste conducted by a 60 Minutes news team in 2013. Answer the questions below. In order to earn full credit, your answers should be complete, relevant, thoughtful, specific and original.
- What components of electronic waste (e-waste) are harmful?
- What effects does e-waste have on humans?
- Why is it a bad idea to send e-waste overseas for disposal/recycling?
- Where did the e-waste from Denver eventually end up?
- What public health threat has been identified by scientists that have studied the environment (water and air especially) in the e-waste dump in China? What effect has the pollution had on pregnant women and children?
- Explain what the following statement means: “We have 21st century toxins being managed in a 17th century environment.”
- What is the ash river?
- Why did the Chinese government oppose allowing the reporter and camera crew onto the recycling site?
- Who do you believe should be responsible for making sure that e-waste is disposed of safely and properly?
